Are you ready for a confidence pep talk from my wise little sister?! Though she’s only 17, her perspective on mental health, body-image, and self-love is relatable to teens and adults alike. Whether you’re a big sister, auntie, parent, caretaker, or teen, you’ll walk away with a confidence boost and encouragement for self-love. 

We talk about what it’s like growing up today—from social media pressure, identity struggles, family dynamics, and bullying at school. But we also unpack the beautiful parts: the power of a positive mindset and how even the messiest moments can spark personal growth.

You will learn about... 

• the challenges teenagers face these days and how adults can show up for them 
• why feeling lost is actually a good thing 
• our crunchy mom and how that’s impacted me and my sister’s body-image 
• how to deal with the grief of an absent or emotionally unavailable parent with self-compassion 
• ways to cultivate confidence and a positive mindset as a teen girl 
• what it’s like growing up in an immigrant household 
• what helps cope with bullying 
• how caretakers can support a teens with mental health struggles

Whether you're struggling with your own self-esteem or supporting a teen who is, this episode reminds us that confidence isn’t about being perfect. It’s something all of us must practice. And sometimes, the people we think we’re teaching (like little sisters) end up being our greatest teachers. 

Remember: If you’re having a hard time with confidence, self-esteem, or mental health in general, please reach out to someone you trust. Talking about it is the first step to healing—and you never have to do it alone.

And if you enjoyed this episode, screenshot it and tag @maryspodcast on Instagram! Sharing helps the message of self-love reach more women and girls around the world. 

For more empowering conversations on self-love, confidence, relationships, body-image, mindset and mental health, please explore past episodes of Mary’s Cup of Tea: the Self-Love Podcast for Women.